Careers in Music Production

Individuals interested in music production will find there are distinct career options. Read on to discover the educational requirements, key job duties, and job outlooks for several unique positions in music production.

Career Options in Music Production

People who love music can translate their interest into a career. Music production encompasses artistic and technical careers for individuals who want to work as part of a team to create a finished musical product. Read on to explore five careers in music production.

Job Title

Median Salary

Job Growth (2016-2026)*

Sound Engineer

$53,680 (2016; sound engineering technicians)*

6% (sound engineering technicians)

Music Producer

$50,532 (2017)**

12% (producers and directors)

Acoustic Consultant

$67,495 (2017)**

6% (engineers, all other)

Radio Broadcast Engineer

$38,550 (2016; broadcast technicians)*

-3% (broadcast technicians)

Musical Instrument Technician

$35,010 (2016; musical instrument repairers and tuners)*

2% (musical instrument repairers and tuners)

Sources:*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), **PayScale.com

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Career Information for Jobs in Music Production

Sound Engineer

Sound engineers specialize in the technical aspects of music production. They are responsible for utilizing computers, microphones, and other electronic equipment to record, reproduce, or mix music. Job responsibilities may include recording audio performances, transferring audio records to digital format, and performing equipment repairs to ensure quality recording. Sound engineers usually work in recording studios. They will need a postsecondary nondegree award or certificate. Interested individuals can pursue membership in professional organizations like the Audio Engineering Society. The organization consists of sound engineers, scientists, and creative artists, and offers networking and training opportunities.

Music Producer

Music producers are responsible for overseeing all aspects of music production. They combine an artist's vision with an organization's overall brand. Music producers usually work for music production houses or agencies. Job duties can involve scheduling recording sessions with the necessary instruments and personnel, managing a production budget, and collaborating with musicians and audio engineers on the recording and editing process. Music producers will need a bachelor's degree in sound engineering or music production.

Acoustic Consultant

An acoustic consultant ensures the logistics of a space are suitable for music production. Job responsibilities can include creating design concepts intended to reduce background noise and enhance sound, collaborating with manufacturers and design teams to execute feasible design solutions, and overseeing or conducting on-site testing with sound measurement equipment. Acoustic consultants usually work for professional services or consulting firms. They will need a bachelor's degree in acoustics, architecture, mechanical engineering, or physics; some employers require a relevant master's degree.

Radio Broadcast Engineer

A radio broadcast engineer specializes in disseminating the final product of music production via radio. They are responsible for operating and maintaining equipment utilized for radio programs. Job duties may involve monitoring broadcast signals and adjusting equipment as needed to ensure quality sound, editing broadcast material, and ensuring that equipment is in good working condition. Radio broadcast engineers usually work for radio broadcasting companies. They typically need an associate's degree. Interested individuals can join the Society of Broadcast Engineers, which offers members a variety of exam-based certifications.

Musical Instrument Technician

An instrument technician is responsible for overseeing the instruments during music production. They ensure that instruments are available and in good working condition for performers. Job responsibilities can include cleaning and adjusting instruments, transporting instruments to studios or other production sites, and diagnosing and repairing any issues with instruments. This career requires the minimum of a high school diploma and certification in musical instrument repair from a postsecondary institution. Technicians should also be able to test play the instruments they have to repair.